About Kim Neilson
Kim Neilson grew up immersed in surf culture, spending his early years in Malibu, California, before moving to West Palm Beach, Florida. He built his professional surfing career, being known for his smooth nose-riding style, board-shaping skills, and leadership with the Holmesy Surf Team in Juno Beach. His talent and character earned him lasting respect throughout the surf community.
Beyond the waves, Kim was a devoted father who carried his coastal roots into his art. Following in his father’s footsteps, he became a watercolor artist, painting nautical scenes, charts, and Gulf Stream life that captured the soul of Florida’s waterways. His work became a staple in the Palm Beach area and was frequently featured at Sailfish Marina and the Buccaneer Restaurant.
In 1988, Kim founded Gulf Stream Trading, turning his lifelong passion into a legacy. Remarkably, Kim was 100% colorblind—yet his paintings are celebrated for their depth, movement, and vibrant coastal energy.
Kim passed away on August 24, 2018. He is remembered as a surfer, an artist, and above all, for his love for the ocean, family, and creativity.
The Basara Brothers are honoring Kim's legacy
It all started in the early 80s when we met Kim Neilson and bonded over our love of water. We fished the mullet run, cast for snook at Lake Worth inlet's south jetty, surfed Reef Road, and caught lobster in Key West. We watched Kim pour his heart into his art, painting the sides of our friend’s boat and capturing the nautical lifestyle. We wondered why he didn't share his work more.
Years later, fate reconnected us with Kim's son, James Drake "Barney" Neilson, giving our family permission to share Kim's art more broadly. Geev'um Nautical Design was created to celebrate Kim. We offer products with his artwork and original prints of his paintings, with salt spray, sunlight, and South Florida, in mind.